On the Persistence of Pages

Abstract

Throughout academia, the use of Portable Document Format (PDF) files for document distribution is widespread but its impact remains under-researched. Despite prior analyses concluding that PDFs do not provide a consistently equitable experience for learners using assistive technologies, our document distribution practices have remained unchanged. This research examines the cultural and social factors that contribute to the continued dominance of PDF over more accessible formats and emphasizes the need for a shift in document distribution practices. This research highlights one PDF alternative, the open EPUB file format, as being the expressed choice of assistive technology users. The author concludes that focusing on inclusive learner experiences can transform academia’s practices around digital text distribution. The study’s conclusions take the position that any critical evaluation of academia’s current practices must be situated within an inclusive learning perspective. Recommendations are made that future research should continue to explore alternatives to PDF while incorporating diverse perspectives from the assistive technology user community.